Review: The Good Left Undone by Adriana Trigiani

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If you’re drawn to multigenerational family sagas steeped in history and brimming with heart, The Good Left Undone by Adriana Trigiani might just become your next unforgettable read. Set in picturesque Italy and across Europe during WWII, this novel isn’t just a story – it’s an emotional experience. This was the first book I read by Adriana Trigiani, and it immediately earned a place among my treasured favorites.

Key Takeaways: The Good Left Undone by Adriana Trigiani

A sweeping historical fiction novel with a vivid Italian setting.
Emotional depth and strong family themes across generations.
Introduces lesser-known WWII history involving Italian Scots.
A perfect pick for fans of heartwarming, character-driven stories.
A personal author note adds powerful resonance.

The Good Left Undone by Adriana Trigiani

This was the very first Adriana Trigiani novel I picked up—and honestly, I’m not sure why it took me so long. Something about the Italian setting caught my eye (because really, who doesn’t love Italy?), and I’m so glad it did.

What I didn’t expect was how deeply this book would transport me. I could practically smell the pasta, feel the sea breeze, and hear the echoes of family laughter across generations. I laughed, I cried, I mourned, and I walked away feeling like these characters were part of my own family.

What It’s About

Matelda Cabrelli, the family’s strong-willed matriarch, knows she’s nearing the end of her life – and she’s determined to finally share her family’s hidden history.

Through Matelda’s storytelling, we travel back to her mother Domenica’s journey during WWII, from the sunny shores of Italy to war-torn Liverpool and the rugged coasts of Scotland. Along the way, Domenica finds love, heartbreak, and resilience.

Meanwhile, in the present day, Matelda and her granddaughter Anina confront questions of legacy, forgiveness, and what it means to be truly free.

My Review Rating – 5 out of 5 stars.

The Good Left Undone is one of those rare books that I didn’t just read – I felt. With unforgettable characters, a richly detailed Italian setting, and a story that spans generations, this novel had me completely immersed, and it earned every one of the 5 stars I gave it. It’s the kind of book I’ll be thinking about for a long time – and yes, one I’ll absolutely reread.

What I Liked

The Setting

Italy was a huge part of what drew me to this book, and Trigiani made it come alive. I could practically smell the sea air and taste the pasta. She doesn’t just describe Italy – she immerses you in it.

The Characters

I was fully emotionally invested in the Cabrelli family. This is a story about mothers and daughters, about the bonds that hold families together even across generations and war.

The Plot & Storyline

I loved the family saga format, the historical detail, and the dual timeline. I especially appreciated learning about the plight of Italian Scots during WWII – something I hadn’t encountered in historical fiction before. Despite the heavy themes, this book left me feeling surprisingly uplifted. That’s no small feat.

What I Didn’t Like

Honestly? I just didn’t want it to end. If I had one complaint, it would be that I wanted even more time with these characters.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Good Left Undone by Adriana Trigiani

Is The Good Left Undone based on a true story?

No, but Adriana Trigiani was inspired by real historical events, especially those involving Italian Scots during WWII.

Do you need to read any other books before this one?

Nope! This is a standalone novel and a great introduction to Trigiani’s work.

Is this a romance novel?

Not exactly, though it includes a touching love story. It’s best described as historical fiction with strong emotional and romantic elements.

Will I cry?

Probably. But you might also smile and sigh and want to call your grandma. It’s that kind of book.

The Good Left Undone: A Novel

Amazon

Conclusion: Why This One Earned 5 Stars

The Good Left Undone by Adriana Trigiani is everything I love in historical fiction – rich in character, grounded in real-world history, and emotionally resonant. It’s a rare thing for a book to feel so immersive and so comforting at the same time. This one will absolutely stay with me – and yes, I’ll most likely be rereading it.

Explore More Historical Fiction

If you’re drawn to emotional, immersive reads like The Good Left Undone, you’ll definitely want to browse our Ultimate Guide to Historical Fiction for more unforgettable stories set in the past.

And don’t miss my review of one of Adriana Trigiani’s best, The View From Lake Como!